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Stories from Slovenia

St Gregory's Day – the Slovenian Valentine's Day

Heart-warming celebration of spring and love

In Slovenia, lovers have two dedicated holidays

It only makes sense that a country with the word love in its name should celebrate love with special gusto. Love is in the air year-round, but lovers can celebrate it at least on two separate occasions: first, on Valentine's Day in February, and second, on St. Gregory’s Day in March. Oral folk tradition has it that on St. Gregory’s Day birds are joined in wedlock. In the days of yore, it was custom for the maidens to look up into the sky on this day; it was believed that the first bird they would see indicated what type of husband they will end up marrying. St. Gregory’s Day is also when the first hint of spring fills the air.

The victory of light over darkness

Places with a long-standing tradition of crafts and trade believed that St. Gregory “tosses the lamp into the water” as the days have become longer and artificial light is no longer needed in workshops. Over time, the tradition of crafting lamp-lit miniature boats and houses, so-called “gregorčki”, and sending them off downstream was born. This spectacle takes place on the eve of St. Gregory’s Day. Some of the tiny vessels are veritable pieces of art, and attending the custom is quite the treat. Mostly, they are made by pre-schoolers and school children. The tiny floating lights are not only a symbolic, but also a must-do romantic experience.

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Feel Slovenia the Podcast: Putting the Love in Slovenia: Saint Gregory's Day

gregorjevo_pomlad v zelencih

Nature awakening in spring

When the last snow patches melt away, the first heralds of spring pop up. First, the landscape takes on gentle hues of green, before donning a colourful array of various flowers. Spring is thus the ideal time to visit botanical gardens and the most flower-filled parts of Slovenia.

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gregorjevo_par na veliki planini

Love is in the air

Slovenia is a romantic country. Find the right couple’s experience, get to know the beauty of Slovenian destinations and treat yourself to some fine food for the heart and soul. Certain Slovenian spas and wellness centres offer attractive pampering packages for couples. Take a walk through the charming town centres and discover their romantic spots. And, because they say that the way to someone’s heart is through their stomach, you can enjoy an original dinner experience in the most unconventional places. Perhaps you will be so captivated by Slovenia, you will decide to say your "I do’s" here.

Experiences filled with romance

Welcome to the only country in the world whose very name contains the word LOVE. Slovenia is therefore a true paradise for those looking for romantic experiences. It is full of hidden dream spots where couples can enjoy an unforgettable moment, be it a first date or a wedding.

More on: Experiences filled with romance

Stories from Slovenia

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